I have never had that, but I've never kept a planted Discus tank. I don't think you will be able to break him of this habit. In this case I think that assasin snails is in order. They will rid your tank of the pond snails.
I just want to share my odd experience here.
10 days ago I've added 3 new discus in my tank after a proper QT procedure . The most voracious eater stopped eating the 3th day although the two other discus were all well .
Ive transfered it in a QT tank and started the heat treatment to enchance appetite .Today I've found a bunch of very small baby pond snails on the bottom of the QT .
Snails looked undigested with shells on them although they looked dead , not moving .
Has anyone else experienced discus eating or hurting it's self from eating snails ?
Is there any idea on how to drive him away from this nasty habbit because now I'm scared that he will do it again once I get him back in the main tank .
I have never had that, but I've never kept a planted Discus tank. I don't think you will be able to break him of this habit. In this case I think that assasin snails is in order. They will rid your tank of the pond snails.
Mama Bear
I've seen them go after snails, but if they can't digest the shell then it can't be good for them... I'd think they could rupture the intestine...
Liz , Ive already added 10 grown Assasins 2-3 weeks ago and I see empty snail shells all over the tank , but I guess the process of complete extermination of all pond snails would take some time . Im afraid that he will continue with this too.
Brian , after the addition of epsom salt he pooped some more so it's definitely dangerous if it continues because he completely stuff it's self with them .
Not the same as snails but I had constipated discus from feeding them halibut roe (fish eggs).They couldn't digest the shell casings and I needed to use epsom salts which worked great.
Just an update .
I got the greedy pond snail eater back in the main tank for a couple of days now and it seems like it's doing ok so far.
. It's eating with gusto again and constantly scavenge the bottom for food between the meals , but it doesn't get bloated . I see it eats and poops regulary on every meal although it eats until it's belly pops on every meal .
It's funny to say but it looks like he has learned his lesson this time .
In case bloating happens again , it's QT is ready for epsom salt bath again .
Best of luck with him. I also hope that he learned a lesson.
Mama Bear